Hingoli, Sept. 28 -- Maharashtra Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule on Monday said the state government has cancelled the leave of employees from 11 crucial departments and directed officials to remain stationed at their headquarters to tackle the escalating drought situation across the state.

Speaking during a visit to Arati village in Hingoli district to review the prevailing conditions, Bawankule said the government is taking steps to strengthen administrative preparedness and ensure speedy implementation of relief measures in affected areas.

He said assistance to farmers would be determined after crop-loss assessment reports from all affected districts are compiled. The government will examine relief available under crop insura...